Graduation

Graduation (卒業 Sotsugyou) is a term used to refer to a member of AKB48, Nogizaka46 and its respective national and international sister and rival groups, that leaves their respective group. The term is used for other idol groups as well.

Graduation Process[]

Members usually announce their graduation from the group as a surprise announcement at the end of theater performances. The date of the member's final performance is usually decided by management at a later date.

Other methods of graduation announcement include (but are not limited to):

Announcement at AKB48-related concerts and events
Announcement on television programs
Announcement through a newspaper
Announcement through radio shows
Announcement through social networking sites
Announcement through a Youtube video
Official announcement from management
Annoncement on press conference

Reasons for graduation can vary. Common reasons include:

Choosing to focus on studies
Poor health
Pursuing a career in show-business outside the AKB48 Group
Personal reasons

The graduation ceremony of members usually consists of a final theater performance, after which the member takes down her picture from the portrait wall of the theater. Senbatsu members often get segments of concerts dedicated to their graduation in addition to the theater ceremony. In rare cases, a full concert can be dedicated to and named after the graduating member/s if the member is highly significant to the group. This has happened on several occasions.

In some cases, graduated members are still obligated to attend handshake events after their final performance.

Other Terms[]

Withdraw (「辞退」・「活動辞退」)
This term cam be used for members who chose to leave the group after a scandal involving them surfaces. It can also be used for kenkyuusei scheduled for promotion who want to leave the group anyway. Lastly, the term is used for members who wish leave the group without having a final graduation ceremony.

Dismiss (「解雇」・「契約解除」)
This term is used for members who are forced to leave the group after breaking a rule.

Graduated and Graduating Members in 2019[]

Many members have graduated from the 48 Group since its formation. A full list of members who have graduated can be found (see here). Below is a list of members who graduated or announced their graduation in 2019 (some cases in 2018) specifically.
Bolded names denote members who have yet to graduate since their announcement.